India's naval capabilities received a significant boost on Friday as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned INS Mahendragiri, the sixth stealth frigate under the Indian Navy's Project 17A Nilgiri-class programme, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. Built with more than 75% indigenous equipment and technology, the warship marks another milestone in India's drive towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.

The multi-role stealth frigate has been designed to counter threats across air, surface and underwater domains simultaneously. Equipped with advanced indigenous missile systems, electronic warfare capabilities, anti-submarine warfare technologies and an integrated combat management system, INS Mahendragiri is expected to strengthen India's operational readiness in the Indian Ocean Region and contribute to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Rajnath Singh described the induction of the warship as a major achievement for India's indigenous defence sector. He said the vessel reflects the country's growing capability to design and build complex frontline warships using domestic technology and industrial expertise.

Indigenous Defence Push

A key highlight of INS Mahendragiri is its high level of indigenisation. More than three-fourths of its equipment and systems have been developed within India, with significant contributions from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

The project has not only strengthened India's defence manufacturing ecosystem but has also generated employment opportunities while reducing dependence on imported military hardware.

Advanced Combat Features

INS Mahendragiri is equipped with a range of sophisticated weapon and sensor systems designed for modern naval warfare. Its arsenal includes surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems, anti-submarine warfare capabilities, advanced electronic warfare suites and a fully integrated combat management system.

The warship also incorporates advanced stealth technology that reduces its radar, infrared and acoustic signatures, making it considerably more difficult for adversaries to detect and track during operations.

Powered by a Combined Diesel and Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, the frigate can undertake long-range missions while maintaining high operational speeds.

What Makes a Stealth Frigate Different?

Stealth frigates are specially designed warships that minimise detection by enemy radar, sonar and infrared surveillance systems. Their unique hull design, specialised materials and reduced acoustic signature enhance survivability during combat operations.

Besides stealth characteristics, these warships are capable of carrying out multiple missions, including air defence, anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine operations. They also operate advanced radars, torpedoes, naval guns and helicopters, enabling them to respond to diverse maritime threats.

Project 17A Progress

INS Mahendragiri is part of the Navy's ambitious Project 17A, under which seven advanced stealth-guided missile frigates are being constructed.

Four vessels are being built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, while the remaining three are under construction at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.

Project 17A is the successor to the Shivalik-class programme and represents India's first major warship construction initiative to extensively use integrated block construction technology. Under this method, different sections of a ship are built separately before being assembled, reducing construction time and improving quality.

Kurnool to Become India's 'Drone City'

During the event, Rajnath Singh also announced that Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh is being developed as a dedicated Drone City, with a cluster of eight drone manufacturing companies already being established.

Drawing comparisons with Surat's diamond industry and Bengaluru's technology ecosystem, Singh said Kurnool has the potential to emerge as India's leading drone manufacturing and innovation hub, strengthening the country's defence and civilian drone capabilities.

Name Rooted in Heritage

INS Mahendragiri derives its name from the Mahendragiri mountain, a site with deep historical and religious significance in India. According to mythology, the mountain is associated with Lord Parashuram and also finds mention in the Ramayana. The Indian Navy has traditionally named several warships after India's mountains, rivers and heritage sites, reflecting the country's cultural legacy alongside its maritime traditions.

The commissioning of INS Mahendragiri further reinforces India's focus on indigenous naval modernisation and enhanced maritime security amid evolving strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.